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Air Fryer Steak With Garlic Butter brings the steakhouse to your own kitchen while saving both time and hassle. Juicy steak meets golden garlic butter for a meal that tastes special but fits on a busy weeknight. The air fryer turns out steak that is perfectly cooked inside and charred just right on the edges with so little effort that it feels almost like a secret.
The first time I made steak in my air fryer my husband could not believe I had not spent hours in the kitchen. Now it is my go-to when I am craving steakhouse flavor with zero fuss.
Ingredients
- Strip steak ribeye or tri tip: Choose steaks that are well-marbled for the juiciest results. Steaks should be about one inch thick for even cooking.
- Olive oil: A light coating helps seasoning cling and promotes browning. Look for extra virgin for its rich flavor and healthy fats.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural beef flavor. Choose kosher or flaky salt if you have it.
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked delivers the best flavor boost.
- Butter: Unsalted and softened blends smoothly for the garlic butter. European-style has extra richness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced is a must for big flavor. Look for firm bright cloves.
- Italian seasoning: Adds a subtle herbal note. If using dried herbs make sure they are fragrant not stale.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed perks up the butter and cuts the richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks:
- Pat the steaks completely dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown. Let them sit at room temperature for twenty minutes so they cook more evenly.
- Heat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit to preheat. A hot basket means a beautiful crust forms fast.
- Season and Oil the Steaks:
- Rub both sides of the steak with olive oil using your hands. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly so every bite has flavor. Press seasoning in gently.
- Cook the Steaks:
- Arrange steaks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they do not touch. Cook for six minutes then flip carefully using tongs. Cook another six minutes for medium doneness. Use an instant read thermometer to check internal temperature.
- Prepare Garlic Butter:
- While steaks cook mix softened butter garlic Italian seasoning and lemon juice in a small bowl with a spoon or fork. Taste and add more salt if needed.
- Rest and Finish the Steak:
- Remove steaks and immediately top each with garlic butter. Let rest uncovered for ten minutes. The butter will melt slowly into the steak and the juices will settle for peak tenderness.
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My favorite part is swirling the garlic butter over the warm steak and watching it melt in. The smell always draws everyone to the kitchen. My kids joke that it is better than any restaurant steak and I secretly agree.
Storage Tips
Let any leftover steak cool then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Sliced steak is perfect for salads or wraps the next day. If freezing wrap tightly in foil and store in a zip bag for up to two months. A quick reheat in the air fryer brings it back beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find strip steak use ribeye or tri tip for similar tenderness. For the garlic butter swap in your favorite fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Ghee or plant-based butter can stand in for traditional butter. Any neutral oil works in place of olive oil if that is all you have.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your steak with classic mashed potatoes air-fried vegetables or a tangy arugula salad. I love adding a handful of crispy air fryer potatoes for that steakhouse feeling. The garlic butter also tastes divine on grilled bread or corn.
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Cultural Notes
Steak with herby compound butter has roots in both French and American home cooking. An air fryer streamlines a classic technique making steak night an everyday treat not a special occasion. It is amazing to see how technology brings tradition into daily life.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How do I know when the steak is done?
Use an instant read meat thermometer and aim for 135-140°F for medium rare. Let it rest; the internal temperature will reach 145°F as it sits.
- → Why rest the steak after cooking?
Resting allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- → Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes. Rib eye, strip steak, or tri tip work well. Cooking time might vary depending on thickness and cut.
- → How do I prevent overcrowding the air fryer?
Arrange steaks in a single layer with space between for optimal air circulation and even cooking.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze for two to three months.